Microchip Technology MCP4011T-503E/MS
- Part No.:
- MCP4011T-503E/MS
- Manufacturer:
- Microchip Technology
- Category:
- Digital Potentiometers
- Package:
- 8-TSSOP, 8-MSOP (0.118", 3.00mm Width)
- Datasheet:
-
MCP4011T-503E/MS.pdf
- Description:
- IC DGTL POT 50KOHM 64TAP 8MSOP
- Quantity:
- Payment:

- Shipping:

Inventory:1,569
Please send an inquiry. Send us your inquiry, and we will respond immediately.
Product details
Overview
MCP4011T-503E/MS from Microchip Technology is a volatile 6-bit digital potentiometer in MSOP-8 package, configured as a potentiometer with 50 kΩ nominal resistance, 64-step resolution, and ±0.5 LSb integral nonlinearity at 5.5V. It operates from 1.8V to 5.5V supply, features 75 Ω typical wiper resistance, and supports high-voltage tolerant U/D control up to 12.5V - used for precision gain/offset trimming in industrial sensor signal conditioning circuits.
For engineers reviewing the MCP4011T-503E/MS datasheet, MCP4011T-503E/MS pinout, MCP4011T-503E/MS application, or MCP4011T-503E/MS equivalent, this page delivers verified electrical specs, terminal roles, real-world use cases, and validated alternative options for analog tuning in space-constrained, wide-temperature designs.
Technical Context
The MCP4011T-503E/MS implements a resistor ladder with volatile RAM-based wiper register, controlled exclusively via simple Up/Down (U/D) serial interface with CS enable. Its potentiometer configuration requires external connection of all three terminals (A, W, B), and power-on defaults to mid-scale (0x1F) wiper position.
It supports two operating modes: standard low-voltage U/D toggling (≤1 MHz, 500 ns timing margins) and high-voltage U/D mode (≥8.5 V threshold) for noise-immune control. Resistor characteristics are specified only between 2.7V–5.5V, while device logic remains functional down to 1.8V.
Key Specifications
| Parameter | Value and Actual Design Meaning |
|---|---|
| Nominal Resistance | 50 kΩ ±20% - defines full-scale analog range for voltage divider or rheostat use; matches R-2R ladder design for predictable step sizing. |
| Resolution | 64 taps (6-bit) - provides 15.625 Ω minimum step size across 50 kΩ, enabling fine-grained calibration in sensor front-ends. |
| Wiper Resistance | 75 Ω typical - contributes minimal series error in low-impedance feedback paths; stable over temperature (±125 Ω max at 2.7V). |
| Tempco (Absolute) | 50 ppm/°C (0°C to 70°C typ.) - ensures <±0.3% resistance drift over industrial ambient range, critical for uncalibrated systems. |
| Supply Voltage Range | 1.8V to 5.5V - enables direct interfacing with 1.8V/3.3V/5V microcontrollers without level-shifting; analog performance guaranteed ≥2.7V. |
| Bandwidth (–3 dB) | 200 kHz - determined by 50 kΩ resistance and internal capacitance; suitable for DC–audio frequency adjustment, not RF. |
| Operating Temperature | –40°C to +125°C - qualified for under-hood automotive, motor drive, and industrial control environments without derating. |
Pinout & Package
MSOP-8 package (3.0 mm × 3.0 mm, 0.65 mm pitch), thermally enhanced with θJA = 206°C/W. Pin 1 marked with dot; pins arranged in standard MSOP dual-row layout.
| Pin/Terminal | Circuit Role | Design Meaning |
|---|---|---|
| VDD | Positive supply rail | Accepts 1.8V–5.5V; powers internal logic and resistor array; must be decoupled near pin. |
| VSS | Ground reference | Return path for supply current and analog terminals; shared reference for A/W/B voltage ranges. |
| A | Resistor array end terminal | Connects to high-side of potentiometer; voltage range limited to VSS ≤ VA ≤ VDD. |
| W | Wiper output terminal | Provides adjustable tap point; supports ≤2.5 mA continuous current; low 75 Ω resistance minimizes loading error. |
| B | Resistor array end terminal | Connects to low-side of potentiometer; same voltage and current limits as Terminal A. |
| CS | Chip select input | Active-low enable for U/D interface; high-voltage tolerant (up to 12.5V); includes weak internal pull-up/pull-down (~16 kΩ). |
| U/D | Up/Down direction control | Edge-triggered logic input; rising edge increments wiper, falling edge decrements; HV mode enabled above 8.5V threshold. |
| NC | No-connect | Internally unused; must remain floating or grounded per PCB layout best practices; no electrical function. |
Key Features
| Feature | Design Value |
|---|---|
| Volatile wiper memory with POR default | Resets to 0x1F (mid-scale) on power-up - eliminates startup uncertainty in closed-loop systems requiring known initial gain. |
| High-voltage tolerant U/D and CS inputs | Operates reliably with 8.5V–12.5V control signals - enables direct connection to 12V PLC I/O or automotive wake-up lines without external translators. |
| Low static current consumption | 1 µA max (serial interface inactive) - extends battery life in portable instrumentation and IoT sensor nodes. |
| Ratiometric tempco of 10 ppm/°C | Minimizes voltage-divider ratio drift over temperature - preserves accuracy in ADC reference scaling and op-amp gain-setting networks. |
| Wide analog operating range | Terminals A/W/B support full VSS-to-VDD swing - allows bidirectional signal routing and AC-coupled applications without clamping diodes. |
Applications
| Industrial Sensor Calibration | Programmable Gain Amplifier |
|---|---|
|
Use Scenario: Trimming offset/gain in 4–20 mA transmitter front-end using a 24V loop-powered design. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: Potentiometer-mode digital trimmer replacing mechanical pots; sets feedback resistor ratio in transimpedance amplifier stage. Use Value: Enables field recalibration via MCU GPIO without hardware change; 50 kΩ value matches common loop impedance requirements and maintains <±0.5 LSb INL at 125°C. |
Use Scenario: Configurable gain selection in a multi-range data acquisition system with ±10V input range. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: Rheostat-mode variable resistor in non-inverting op-amp feedback path; wiper position set during initialization. Use Value: Achieves 12 discrete gain steps (1× to 100×) with <0.3% total error over –40°C to +85°C; NC pin allows compact MSOP-8 footprint. |
| Automotive Cabin Temperature Sensor | Medical ECG Front-End Calibration |
|
Use Scenario: Compensating thermistor nonlinearity in HVAC cabin air temperature sensing module. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: Potentiometer connected as voltage divider to generate reference for ADC comparison; updated during key-on self-test. Use Value: 125°C rating ensures reliability near engine bay; 75 Ω wiper resistance prevents loading error on high-impedance thermistor network. |
Use Scenario: Fine-tuning DC offset nulling in low-noise instrumentation amplifier for biopotential measurement. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: Precision rheostat in servo-nulling loop; adjusted once per patient setup via UART-connected MCU. Use Value: 50 ppm/°C absolute tempco limits offset drift to <1 µV/°C over clinical operating range; MSOP-8 fits tight PCB space near analog front-end. |
Equivalent & Alternatives
The following parts are listed as comparable options for similar digital potentiometer applications.
| Alternative Part | Technical Difference | Application Difference | Selection Advice |
|---|---|---|---|
| AD5160BRJZ-50-R7 | Nonvolatile EEPROM wiper memory; 64-step; 50 kΩ; SOT-23-6 package; SPI interface. | Retains setting after power loss; requires SPI host instead of GPIO-driven U/D; smaller footprint but no NC pin. | Choose when power-cycle retention is mandatory and SPI is available; avoid if U/D simplicity or MSOP thermal performance is required. |
| MCP4017T-503E/MS | Same family, identical pinout and specs, but includes WiperLock™ technology for accidental-write protection. | Enables hardware lock of wiper position during normal operation; requires VIHH pulse to unlock - adds safety in high-vibration environments. | Choose when field reprogramming risk exists (e.g., automotive ECU); otherwise MCP4011T-503E/MS offers identical functionality at lower cost. |
Compared with AD5160BRJZ-50-R7 and MCP4017T-503E/MS, the MCP4011T-503E/MS prioritizes GPIO simplicity and thermal robustness in MSOP-8, trading nonvolatility and write-protection for lower BOM count and proven stability in extended temperature cycling.
Availability
MCP4011T-503E/MS is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for industrial sensor calibration, programmable gain amplifiers, automotive cabin sensors, and medical ECG front-end calibration requiring stable component supply across extended temperature ranges.
Supply support for MCP4011T-503E/MS includes scheduled delivery planning, volume procurement assistance, BOM continuity management, traceable sourcing, and lifecycle availability coordination for OEM customers, industrial embedded developers, connected-device designers, and electronics production programs.
Manufacturer
Microchip Technology is a leading provider of microcontrollers, analog devices, and Flash-IP solutions, headquartered in Chandler, Arizona, with global manufacturing and support infrastructure.
The MCP40xx family delivers low-cost, easy-to-integrate digital potentiometers targeting cost-sensitive, space-constrained analog tuning applications where GPIO simplicity and wide temperature operation outweigh nonvolatile storage needs.
FAQ
What is the nominal resistance tolerance and tempco specification for the MCP4011T-503E/MS?
The MCP4011T-503E/MS has a nominal resistance of 50 kΩ with ±20% tolerance (40.0–60.0 kΩ). Its absolute resistance tempco is 50 ppm/°C (typical, 0°C to 70°C), and ratiometric tempco is 10 ppm/°C (MCP4011/13 only, code = 0x1F). These values are measured with VA = VDD and VB = VSS at TA = +25°C.
Can the MCP4011T-503E/MS operate from a 1.8V supply, and what analog performance is guaranteed at that voltage?
Yes, the MCP4011T-503E/MS operates from 1.8V to 5.5V for logic functionality, but resistor characteristics (RAB, INL, DNL) are only specified and guaranteed from 2.7V to 5.5V. At 1.8V, wiper settling time increases and nonlinearity degrades - use 2.7V+ for precision analog applications.
Does the MCP4011T-503E/MS support rheostat configuration, and how is it implemented?
Yes, the MCP4011T-503E/MS supports rheostat mode by leaving either Terminal A or Terminal B unconnected (floating), using only W and the remaining terminal. This configuration is explicitly supported per datasheet Note 1 and validated for all resistance variants including the 50 kΩ MCP4011T-503E/MS.
What is the maximum allowable voltage on the A, W, and B terminals relative to VSS?
The A, W, and B terminals of the MCP4011T-503E/MS tolerate voltages from VSS to VDD + 0.3V. Exceeding this range risks latch-up or permanent damage. For example, with VDD = 5.5V, the maximum terminal voltage is 5.8V referenced to VSS.
How does the MCP4011T-503E/MS handle power-up, and can the default wiper position be customized?
The MCP4011T-503E/MS performs power-on reset (POR) to wiper address 0x1F (mid-scale) by default. Custom POR settings are possible but require factory programming - not user-configurable in-circuit. The device does not retain wiper position across power cycles due to volatile RAM architecture.
MCP4011T-503E/MS Specifications
- Product attributes
- Attribute value
- Manufacturer:
- Microchip Technology
- Series:
- -
- Package/Case:
- 8-TSSOP, 8-MSOP (0.118", 3.00mm Width)
- Packaging:
- Tape & Reel (TR)
- Product Status:
- Active
- Programmable:
- Not Verified
- Taper:
- Linear
- Configuration:
- Potentiometer
- Number of Circuits:
- 1
- Number of Taps:
- 64
- Resistance (Ohms):
- 50k
- Interface:
- Up/Down (U/D, CS)
- Memory Type:
- Volatile
- Voltage - Supply:
- 1.8V ~ 5.5V
- Features:
- -
- Tolerance:
- ±20%
- Temperature Coefficient (Typ):
- 150ppm/°C
- Mounting Type:
- Surface Mount
- Grade:
- -
- Qualification:
- -
- Supplier Device Package:
- 8-MSOP
- Operating Temperature:
- -40°C ~ 125°C
- Resistance - Wiper (Ohms) (Typ):
- 70
MCP4011T-503E/MS FAQ
1.How can I place an order for MCP4011T-503E/MS through Aetrix?
Please submit a Request for Quotation (RFQ) for MCP4011T-503E/MS on Aetrix. Our sales agent will provide a competitive quotation and guide you through the order confirmation once you accept the terms.
2.Are the price and stock information for MCP4011T-503E/MS reliable?
The price and inventory of MCP4011T-503E/MS are updated periodically and may fluctuate due to market conditions. Stock and pricing data are typically refreshed every 24 hours. Quotation validity for MCP4011T-503E/MS is usually 5 days.
3.What payment methods are accepted for MCP4011T-503E/MS?
We accept Wire Transfer, PayPal, Credit Card, Western Union, MoneyGram, and Escrow for MCP4011T-503E/MS transactions.
Note: Certain payment methods may incur a processing fee.
4.How is shipping managed for MCP4011T-503E/MS?
MCP4011T-503E/MS orders can be shipped via leading logistics carriers, including DHL, UPS, FedEx, TNT, or Registered Mail.
Once your MCP4011T-503E/MS order is processed, you will receive an email with the shipment details and tracking number.
Note: Tracking information may take up to 24 hours to appear. Express delivery typically takes 3–5 business days.
5.How can I obtain technical support or documentation for MCP4011T-503E/MS?
For technical support, including MCP4011T-503E/MS datasheets, pinout diagrams, or application guidance, please contact our engineering support team. They can provide detailed documentation and assistance for your MCP4011T-503E/MS requirements.
6.How does Aetrix verify that MCP4011T-503E/MS is sourced from the original manufacturer or authorized distributors?
All MCP4011T-503E/MS products on Aetrix are procured from qualified distributors and authorized channels. Our dedicated quality assurance team conducts strict verification, including traceability checks and, if necessary, third-party testing. This ensures that MCP4011T-503E/MS meets industry standards.
7.What is the process for return or replacement of MCP4011T-503E/MS?
All MCP4011T-503E/MS units undergo pre-shipment inspection (PSI). If there is an issue with MCP4011T-503E/MS, returns or replacements are accepted under the following conditions:
1.Quantity discrepancies, incorrect items, or visible external defects (such as breakage or corrosion), acknowledged by Aetrix.
2.The issue is reported within 90 days of delivery.
3.The MCP4011T-503E/MS part is unused and in its original packaging.
Return procedure for MCP4011T-503E/MS:
1.Submit a request within 90 days.
2.Obtain a Return Material Authorization (RMA) from Aetrix.
MCP4011T-503E/MS Tags

-
MCP4018T-103E/LT
Microchip Technology

-
MCP4018T-503E/LT
Microchip Technology

-
MCP4011T-103E/SN
Microchip Technology

-
MCP4018T-104E/LT
Microchip Technology

-
MCP4017T-503E/LT
Microchip Technology

-
MCP4018T-502E/LT
Microchip Technology

-
MCP4017T-103E/LT
Microchip Technology

-
MCP4531T-103E/MF
Microchip Technology

-
MCP4021T-202E/SN
Microchip Technology

-
MCP4023T-103E/CH
Microchip Technology

-
MCP4022T-503E/CH
Microchip Technology

-
MCP4551T-502E/MS
Microchip Technology
Tech Hub
TTL and CMOS logic families differ in thresholds, loading, output drive, power and timing. This engineering guide compares 74HC and 74HCT, calculates noise margins and checks 3.3 V/5 V compatibility.
A practical engineering guide to 3.3V and 5V logic compatibility, input thresholds, resistor dividers, translator ICs, MOSFET level shifting, I2C pull-ups, timing limits and power-sequencing risks.
The 74HC595 uses push-pull logic outputs, while the TPIC6B595 uses 50 V open-drain DMOS sinks for higher-power loads. This guide compares timing, current limits, 3.3 V interfacing, load wiring, thermal…
The 74HC595 converts serial data into eight stable parallel outputs. This guide covers pin functions, shift and storage timing, OE and MR behavior, drive-current limits, cascading, voltage compatibilit…
A technical comparison of level-sensitive latches and edge-triggered flip-flops, covering timing windows, setup and hold limits, master–slave operation, time borrowing, race-through, HDL inference and…
A D latch stores one bit while Enable controls when data can pass. This reference covers gate-level operation, truth tables, transparency, setup and hold timing, LE versus OE, common ICs and practical …
An SR latch stores one bit through cross-coupled feedback. This engineering reference covers NOR and NAND implementations, truth tables, forbidden-state recovery, gated operation, switch debouncing, fa…
Latch circuits retain one bit through feedback. This technical reference covers SR and D latches, truth tables, transparency, timing limits, latch-versus-flip-flop behavior, applications and common log…
An engineering guide to LED driver operation, constant-current and constant-voltage outputs, linear and switching topologies, dimming, IC selection, calculations, replacement compatibility, and fault c…
Operational amplifier guide covering op amp basics, feedback, ideal vs real op amps, common configurations, buffer circuits, offset, bias current, gain-bandwidth, slew rate, rail-to-rail limits and sel…
